Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 February 2017
291. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the amount she has allocated to specifically assist the agrifood and drinks sector for 2017 in view of Brexit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6331/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Agrifood sector is of critical importance to the Irish economy, and its regional spread means it underpins the socio-economic development of rural areas in particular.
Enterprise Ireland works closely with Irish Food and Drink companies to support innovation and build scale and resilience in order for them to be positioned to compete on world markets.
I have secured additional funding for Enterprise Ireland to respond to Brexit and this includes additional staff with sectoral knowledge and expertise.
While Enterprise Ireland is the development agency for companies in the Food and Drink sector in Ireland, Bord Bia under the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is responsible for working with these companies to access overseas markets.
The UK remains a key market, however Enterprise Ireland is also working closely with Bord Bia to help Irish Food and Drink companies build on their international reputation for product excellence and also drive growth in other key markets such as the Eurozone, Canada, the US and Asia.
